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Planning commission opposes proposed Oak Apartment District over scale, environmental and infrastructure worries
Summary
The Planning Commission recommended an unfavorable referral to the Zoning Commission on a proposed Oak Apartment District that would allow dense multifamily housing on a parcel now zoned single‑family.
The Town of Stratford Planning Commission voted to send an unfavorable recommendation to the Zoning Commission on a proposed Oak Apartment District (text amendment) that would rezone a single‑family parcel for high‑density multifamily development.
Staff reported the parcel is in an RS‑1 single‑family neighborhood, within 300 feet of resource land and wetland soils, and near a flood hazard area. The parcel is currently served by septic and staff noted a prior WPCA recommendation limited public sewer extension to one single‑family home at that location.
Staff also said the area lacks sidewalks and reliable public transit, and that Connecticut environmental mapping indicated federally listed endangered species on the site. Commissioners said a proposed density of multiple dozens of units on a lot under one acre is out of scale with nearby houses — many under 20 feet tall — and would place strain on drainage, roads and emergency access.
The planning commission’s unfavorable recommendation cited inconsistencies with POCD goals to protect single‑family neighborhoods, open space and low‑impact development. Staff recommended that if the zoning commission were to consider the proposal, design standards, WPCA review, and long‑term affordability covenants should be required, and applicants should be directed toward higher‑density areas served by transit.
A motion to forward an unfavorable recommendation was made, seconded and passed unanimously; staff will transmit the commission’s report and supporting materials to the Zoning Commission.
